R360 League Athletes Subject to 10-Year Exclusion from Australia's Rugby League

Australian rugby league's administration has declared that players who sign with the “rebel” R360 will be barred for 10 seasons.

The new league, set to start in October 2026, is hoping to draw players from union and league with hefty contracts and a reduced playing schedule.

Prominent NRL players have reportedly received offers by R360, which will feature multiple men's sides and four women's sides based in key urban centers around the world.

Representing Samoa Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who plays for his NRL club in the league, has confirmed he has had discussions with the new organization.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also reported to be considering joining the new competition.

Eight major union nations, among them Australia, last week announced a prohibition on players joining R360 playing global fixtures.

“We heard our clubs and we've responded strongly,” commented the league's head V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will continually be entities that seek to pirate our game for potential financial gain.

“They don't invest in pathways or the development of talent. They simply exploit the efforts of others, putting players at risk of monetary damage while gaining personally.

“Essentially, they are, counterfeiting a code.”

The league is launched by former England World Cup winner Mike Tindall and backed by independent financiers.

Following the potential union prohibitions were announced recently, it stated: “We want to work together as part of the worldwide fixture list.

“The event is designed with tailored timetables for men's and women's teams and R360 will permit participants for test matches, as included in their contracts.”

The breakaway group will request authorization for its proposals from rugby union's governing body, union's administrative organization, at its board session in 2026.